Cybersecurity Run Highlights Urgent Need for Public Awareness Amidst Rising Digital Fraud

An inaugural cybersecurity run, a collaborative effort by the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) India, Uganda Campus, and NITA-Uganda, has underscored the growing threat of cybercrime in Uganda. The event brought together IT experts, security personnel, and civil society representatives to advocate for enhanced online safety practices.

Major General Emmanuel Kanyesigye, who led the run, stressed Uganda’s imperative to bolster its cybersecurity infrastructure as more services migrate online. He noted that as digital transactions become the norm, robust protective measures are crucial for individuals, businesses, and institutions.

Officials from NITA-U expressed concern over the public’s lack of basic cybersecurity knowledge, leaving many vulnerable to fraud. Johnson Tumusiime, acting director of Information Security Services, highlighted common oversights like password sharing and reusing, which increase the risk of account breaches. He called for sustained campaigns to educate citizens on protecting their digital identities.

The event also shed light on the initiative’s broader goals, including strengthening IT labs and training students in cybersecurity through the ‘Cybersafe Schools Initiative’. Plans are also underway with the CIO-CxO Digital Leadership Forum for a women’s cybersecurity boot camp.

Speakers emphasized that cybersecurity awareness must extend beyond professional circles to reach the general public. Arnold Lujjumba from NFSU Uganda Campus stated, “Cybersecurity as a subject has been in boardrooms, so we are trying to engage people at the grassroots.” This outreach aims to empower ordinary citizens to protect their credentials and PINs.

Professor Arun Sharimar of NFSU India Uganda Campus noted that while IT offers benefits, it also creates new vulnerabilities. He cited alarming global losses due to cybercrime and suggested Uganda is also facing significant financial impacts, though specific figures require verification.

Concerns were also raised regarding the disproportionate impact of cybercrime on women, including harassment and privacy violations. Elizabeth Busingye from Safe You Africa stressed the need for digital safety education tailored to women’s experiences.

The Uganda Police Force reported that over Shs 72 billion was lost to cybercrime in the 2024/2025 reporting period, with only a fraction recovered. ASP Eric Ziraba Mugabi urged victims to preserve evidence for investigations.

The organizers aim for the cybersecurity run to be part of ongoing efforts to embed digital safety education across schools and communities, fostering a culture where cybersecurity is a shared responsibility among government, businesses, and individuals alike.

Source: Nile Post